KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar®

- 205 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012

In the bustling landscape of New York City's sushi scene, KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar® has carved out a unique and beloved niche. Located on iconic Bleecker Street, this restaurant is a game-changer, dedicating its entire concept to the art of the hand roll. Unlike traditional sushi spots, KazuNori focuses on a singular, perfect experience: serving freshly made hand rolls one at a time, ensuring that the nori (seaweed) remains perfectly crisp and the rice is still warm. This commitment to quality and a specialized format has earned it a reputation for serving some of the best and most authentic hand rolls in the city. It’s a place that strips away the fuss and pretense often associated with sushi, offering a straightforward, high-quality, and deeply satisfying meal in a casual and trendy atmosphere.

The philosophy at KazuNori is rooted in the tradition of Chef Kazunori Nozawa, a sushi legend who believes in simple, pure ingredients. The menu is a testament to this, featuring a concise but meticulously curated selection of hand rolls, made with the freshest possible fish, a special blend of warm rice, and signature housemade sauces. The dining experience is designed to be an efficient and enjoyable "assembly line" of sorts, where each roll is handed directly to you by the chef the moment it is prepared. This unique service model is not about rushing you; it’s about ensuring that you eat the hand roll when it is at its absolute peak of flavor and texture. It's a fun and interactive process that makes a meal at KazuNori more than just eating—it’s an experience.

KazuNori is a perfect spot for those seeking a healthy and delicious meal that doesn't compromise on speed or quality. Its streamlined approach makes it an excellent choice for a solo diner looking for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner. Despite the crowds, the line moves quickly, and the service is known for being fast, efficient, and professional. The restaurant's dedication to its craft and its commitment to providing a high-quality product at a reasonable price point make it a standout in the West Village and a must-visit for any sushi lover in New York.

KazuNori is located at 205 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012, USA. This prime address places it in the heart of the West Village, a neighborhood known for its vibrant atmosphere, historic charm, and diverse culinary scene. Bleecker Street is a destination in itself, filled with unique shops, lively cafes, and other popular restaurants. The restaurant’s location is highly accessible, with several major subway lines within a short walking distance. The A, C, E, B, D, F, and M trains at the West 4th Street-Washington Square station are just a few blocks away, making it easy to reach from all over Manhattan and the outer boroughs. The 1 train at Christopher Street-Sheridan Square is also a convenient option.

The atmosphere of the surrounding neighborhood perfectly complements KazuNori's casual and trendy vibe. It's a great spot to grab a bite before or after exploring the West Village or nearby Washington Square Park. While the space itself is noted to be smaller than other locations, the efficient system and fast turnover ensure that even during busy times, the wait is manageable. For those with mobility needs, the restaurant provides a wheelchair accessible entrance and seating, ensuring that all guests can enjoy the experience comfortably. Its central location and convenient public transport options make KazuNori a top choice for both local New Yorkers and tourists looking for an exceptional meal in a great neighborhood.

KazuNori’s service model is designed for efficiency and quality, focusing on three key options to serve its customers. The restaurant has perfected its system to handle high volumes while maintaining the integrity and freshness of its food. The service is often described as fast and non-fussy, allowing you to enjoy your meal without a long wait.

• Dine-in: The signature KazuNori experience is at the sushi bar. Guests are seated at a counter where chefs prepare and hand each roll directly to them, ensuring it’s eaten when the rice is warm and the seaweed is crispy. It's a casual and interactive experience, perfect for solo diners or small groups.

• Takeout: For those on the go, KazuNori offers a convenient takeout service. While the magic of the warm rice and crispy seaweed is best enjoyed in-house, their to-go sets are designed to maintain quality and are a great option for a delicious meal at home or in the office. The menu also includes specialized "cut rolls" and other items for takeout that travel well.

• Delivery: In a city that runs on delivery, KazuNori has partnered with services to bring their hand rolls and other menu items right to your door. This is a great way to enjoy their food without leaving the comfort of your home, especially on a busy day. While the dine-in experience is unique, the delivery option is perfect for a satisfying and healthy meal.

KazuNori's ability to provide multiple service options demonstrates its commitment to meeting the needs of its customers. From the unique dine-in experience to the convenience of takeout and delivery, they have a solution for every kind of diner. This focus on streamlined, high-quality service is a major reason for their widespread popularity.

KazuNori's highlights are centered around its innovative concept and commitment to quality. The restaurant’s unique approach to hand rolls has earned it a dedicated following and sets it apart in the crowded New York dining scene. From the food itself to the atmosphere and pricing, every element is designed for a memorable and satisfying experience.

• The Original Hand Roll Bar®: As the name suggests, KazuNori pioneered the concept of a restaurant dedicated exclusively to hand rolls. The focus on this singular item ensures a level of quality and expertise that is hard to find anywhere else. The hand rolls are a masterclass in simplicity, with a perfect balance of fresh fish, warm rice, and crispy nori.

• Fast and Efficient Service: The restaurant's "assembly line" format is designed for speed. The queue moves quickly, and once seated, you are served your hand rolls one at a time as soon as they are made, so you can eat them at their peak freshness. This is a major plus for anyone looking for a high-quality meal without a long wait.

• Exceptional Value: KazuNori offers incredibly high-quality sushi at a price point that is very reasonable, especially by New York standards. The cost is all-inclusive, as they are a no-tipping establishment. This transparent pricing model is a refreshing change and is highly appreciated by customers.

• Specialty To-Go Sets: For those who can't dine in, the restaurant has created special to-go sets and kits that are designed to travel well. The Hand Roll Kit, in particular, is a great option for making your own hand rolls at home, perfect for a party or a fun family night.

• Curated Menu: The menu, though brief, is a highlight. It focuses on a small number of fish, ensuring that each one is of the highest quality. Customers also appreciate the availability of seasonal special dishes, such as Sea Bass sashimi, which provides a unique and exciting reason to return.

• Casual and Trendy Atmosphere: The ambiance is a mix of casual and trendy, with a clean and modern design. The bar seating is cozy and intimate, yet the place is busy and lively. The music is present but not too loud, allowing for easy conversation and a relaxed dining experience.

These features, from the unique concept to the commitment to value and a great atmosphere, make KazuNori a truly special place to eat. It’s a restaurant that proves that doing one thing exceptionally well is often the best path to success.

For any inquiries or to place an order, you can contact KazuNori using the following details. While they do not take reservations for regular dining, calling ahead can be helpful for large parties or for information regarding their takeout and delivery services. The staff is known for being welcoming and helpful, ready to assist you with any questions about their menu or services.

• Address: 205 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012, USA

• Phone: (917) 813-0718

• Mobile Phone: +1 917-813-0718

The team at KazuNori is committed to providing a great experience from the moment you interact with them. Their clear communication and friendly attitude are part of what makes the restaurant so highly regarded in the local community. Feel free to call them to get more information about their menu, hours, or to inquire about their unique Hand Roll Kit.

The menu at KazuNori is designed for simplicity, with a focus on a few key items that are prepared to perfection. While there are a la carte options, most customers choose one of the set menus, which provide a curated tasting of their best hand rolls. The food is noted for its freshness and clean, delicious taste, making everything worth trying, but a few items stand out as must-haves.

The most popular choice for a first-time visitor is a Set Menu. The 4, 5, or 6-Hand Roll Set Menus are an excellent value and a great way to try a variety of their best-selling items, including Toro, Yellowtail, Salmon, Bay Scallop, and Crab. Customers often rave about the Bay Scallop hand roll, describing it as "light and smooth and supple and creamy," with a perfect texture. The Toro hand roll is also a favorite, noted for its rich flavor that melts in your mouth.

Beyond the sets, a few individual rolls are also worth highlighting. The Lobster hand roll is consistently praised and is often a reason for customers to order the larger sets. The NZ Sea Bream is another popular choice, noted for its light and clean taste. For those who prefer a more savory option, the Shrimp hand roll is a great choice. You also can’t go wrong with the classic Salmon and Yellowtail hand rolls, which are consistently fresh and delicious.

If you're looking for something beyond the hand rolls, the Salmon Sashimi is an excellent choice. It is noted for its freshness and is a great option for a light, healthy appetizer. Additionally, the to-go offerings are worth considering. The 16-Piece Cut Roll Sets are a fantastic option for a group, offering a variety of cut rolls to share. For a truly unique and fun experience, the Hand Roll Kit is a great choice for parties or a special night in, providing all the ingredients needed to make your own delicious hand rolls at home.

KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar®

205 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012, USA